There’s no denying that Brick City is horse country. In fact, Ocala equestrian events dominate the local scene and contribute millions of dollars to Marion County’s economy each year. But what makes Ocala such a great destination for horse events? Answers include everything from superior footing to great year-round weather.
Ocala equestrian events include everything from the HITS Winter Circuit to the annual Live Oak International driving event. You’ll find other equestrian events from all disciplines in Ocala, including dressage, stadium jumping, and even cross-country competitions. Ocala is also home to the World Equestrian Center, a top event destination for all kinds of horse enthusiasts.
Let’s take a look at some of the top Ocala equestrian events and horse shows on the calendar each year. We’ll show you what makes Ocala the “Horse Capital of the World.”
Why Are There so Many Horses in Ocala?
Fact: Ocala is home to more than 35,000 thoroughbred horses. Take a drive west along State Road 40 or north up U.S. Highway 27 in Ocala and you’ll come across countless horse farms. In fact, there are more than 1,200 horse farms and training facilities in Marion County. You’ll easily see that Ocala is truly horse country cruising down almost any country road.
But why are there so many horses in Ocala? The answer might vary by who you ask. Some folks might say the mild weather, gently rolling hills, and solid footing make Ocala a true destination for horses. While all of these answers are true, it all truly boils down to geology and what lies underfoot.
The Secret is in the Water
Simply put, it’s in the water. The aquifer system under Ocala and the surrounding areas is rich in minerals. One of the most important minerals in Ocala’s water for horses is limestone. This mineral is associated with strong bones and strong bodies. Because the water here is so rich in limestone, the grasses horses here graze on are rich in limestone too. The mineral-infused grass and water give the horses the essential nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong.
The limestone-rich water and the associated benefits are why there are so many horses in Ocala. You’ll find lots of horse breeding facilities and training facilities for young horses here simply because it's easy for them to get the minerals they need to grow strong in Ocala’s water.
With so many horses bred and trained here, it’s easy to see why there are so many Ocala equestrian events. Let’s look at some of the horse shows in Florida, equestrian venues in Ocala, and horse events you can add to your calendar.
Where is the Largest Equestrian Center in Florida?
World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida is the largest equestrian center in not only the Sunshine State but also in the entire United States. It spans nearly 380 acres and is home to 20 state-of-the-art arenas. In fact, World Equestrian Center even has 300 more acres set aside for future growth.
This makes the World Equestrian Center more than twice as large as the Palm Beach Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL. You might say the internationally-known World Equestrian Center makes Ocala the top equestrian center in both the U.S. and across the entire globe.
Amenities at World Equestrian Center
You’ll find that World Equestrian Center is truly a horse lover's dream destination. Amenities here are top-notch. You’ll find 5 futuristic air-conditioned indoor arenas at the World Equestrian Center, as well as 15 cutting-edge outdoor arenas with all-weather footing. These arenas are designed to showcase all kinds of Western events and more.
The heart of the World Equestrian Center is the Grand Outdoor Arena. This 128,000-square-foot facility is a hub for equestrian and other special events. You’ll find that 600,000 hand-placed stone pavers give the Grand Outdoor Arena the perfect ambiance for all kinds of activities.
Other amenities at World Equestrian Center include an on-site veterinary hospital associated with the internationally lauded University of Florida, expo areas and convention facilities, many on-site restaurants, spaces for social events, boutique shopping, and much more.
Can I Stay at the World Equestrian Center?
The World Equestrian Center is a true destination. And that means you’ll find on-site lodging options to suit every need.
If you’d like to relax and recharge in opulence, you’ll find The Equestrian Hotel will surely impress. The hotel is located in the center of it all, just a few minutes’ walk from all the activities at the World Equestrian Center.
The hotel features stylish rooms with designer touches, pampering services offered by Calluna Spa, many opportunities for fine dining, al-fresco eating on a breathtaking terrace, a pool that rivals any luxury country club, high-end retail and shopping, and much more.
Other lodging options at World Equestrian Center include pet-friendly Home-Away-From-Home 3-bedroom rental units and an on-site RV park. You’ll likely find that staying at World Equestrian Center is an equestrian dream come true thanks to the diverse lodging options.
Want to visit the World Equestrian Center for yourself? Find it at 8601 State Road 40 in Ocala, Florida.
Where Are Ocala Equestrian Events Held?
You’ll find hundreds of Ocala equestrian events at the World Equestrian Center each year. However, it is not the only destination for horse shows in Ocala. Let’s look at a few other venues for equestrian events in Ocala and Marion County.
Florida Horse Park
Florida Agricultural Center and Horse Park is a massive, 500-acre venue for equestrian events in Ocala. You’ll also find other events here, like agricultural shows, sporting events, and even educational activities.
Facilities and amenities at Florida Horse Park include 320 stalls, a covered area with clay/sand footing, outdoor arenas with grass and fiber footings, show jump sets, barrels for jumping, and more.
Florida Horse Park is located at 11008 South Highway 475 in Ocala, Florida.
Southeastern Livestock Pavillion
The Southeastern Livestock Pavillion (SELP) is a county-owned equestrian venue, pavilion, and auditorium in Ocala. Facilities and amenities here include a covered area that seats 4,200 people, an outdoor arena, an open field for events, a sale arena, more than 200 bedded stalls, an auditorium, and a reception hall.
Southeastern Livestock Pavillion is a hub of activity in Ocala. In addition to the equestrian events held here, the facility hosts all kinds of favorite community events. The annual Marion County Chili Cook-Off is held here each year, as is the Junior League of Ocala’s Annual Autumn Gift Market.
You’ll find the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion at 2232 NE Jacksonville Road in Ocala, Florida.
HITS Post Time Farm
Post Time Farm is another hub of equestrian events in Ocala. The center spans 450 acres of gently rolling hills. The HITS Winter Circuit has been held here since 2002.
You’ll find the Ocala Horse Properties Stadium, ring footing, 27 permanent barns, 540 stalls, on-site food vendors, and RV hook-ups on-site. Horse health is important at Post Time Farm and you’ll find a number of biosecurity measures in place.
You can visit Post Time Farm at 13710 Old Blitchton Road, in Ocala, Florida.
With so many horses and so many wonderful venues, it’s easy to see why there are so many equestrian events in Ocala. Let’s look at some of the most popular horse shows and equestrian events in Ocala.
What Are the Top Ocala Equestrian Events?
You’ll find horse shows and equestrian events in Ocala on the calendar each month, all year long. Let’s look at some of the top equestrian events held in Ocala.
Events at the World Equestrian Center
There’s a reason why World Equestrian Center is a premier destination for horse lovers. There are hundreds of horse shows and competitions held here each year. In fact, you might find some kind of equestrian every day of the week, every month of the year, on the schedule here.
Events at World Equestrian Center include hunter/jumper, dressage, barrel racing, reining, western, and other breed shows.
Grandview International
Ready for big fun and big horses? Grandview International, sponsored by Advent Health, takes place the first weekend in February at Florida Horse Park. This special event features oversized horses weighing up to a ton, like Clydesdales, Belgians, and Percherons.
Spectators can see these massive beasts maneuver obstacles with hitch wagons as world-class drivers lead the way. A number of event classes feature drivers of all ages, as well as single-horse to unicorn (3 horse) pulls.
The Grandview International equestrian event gives these gentle giants a chance to show off.
HITS Winter Circuit
Winter brings more than cooler temperatures to Ocala. The HITS (Horses in the Sun) Winter Circuit begins in mid-January and runs through March at HITS Post Time Farm. This event is a part of a prestigious series of national horse shows, with other events held in New York, Illinois, and Virginia.
HITS Winter Circuit features hunting and jumping events. Prize purses start at $50,000 and peak at the Great American $1 Million Grand Prix. This means you’ll see top horses and top riders all season long.
Visitors to HITS might be able to find a spot in the bleachers to see the competition. There’s also plenty of room to lay out a blanket or bring a chair to relax on the farm’s 450 bucolic acres.
The next HITS Winter Circuit will take place from January 18 - March 26, 2023.
Ocala Breeders’ Sale
Every year in June and October, thoroughbred investors from around the world visit Ocala to participate in the Ocala Breeders’ Sale (OBS) auctions. These are two of the major sales events held at the venue.
The June Ocala Breeders’ Sale features two-year-olds and horses of racing age. The October Breeders’ Sale features yearlings. Buyers pay a pretty penny for these thoroughbred horses -- the top horse at the June 2022 sale went home for $725,000.
The October OBS will take place on October 11 and 12, 2022, with selected yearlings on the 11th and open yearlings on the 12th. The top horses at the October 2021 sale went home for $170,000.
Not only are the OBS Sales big business, but they are also fun for spectators. Nowhere else in the world can you see future star racers before they bring home the trophies.
You can find Ocala Breeders’ Sales right across from the Ocala International Airport at 1701 SW 60th Avenue in Ocala, Florida.
Live Oak International
Live Oak International is as much of an Ocala equestrian event as it is a social event. Considered one of Marion County’s heritage events, this show features jumpers and drivers from across the U.S. and Europe. It is the largest combined jumping and driving show in the world.
Spectators can see equine ensembles careening corners and splashing through water obstacles as the battle to see how takes home top prizes. More than 10,000 attendees attend over the event’s 4 days, many enjoying the events from tailgating booths sponsored by local businesses and catered with delectable treats. If you can’t score an invite to a tailgate, tickets are available.
The event takes place at the beautiful Live Oak Stud Farm, located just 12 short miles from Downtown Ocala. The next Live Oak International event will take place March 16-19, 2023. You can find Live Oak International at 2215 SW 110th Avenue in Ocala, Florida.
Other Ocala Equestrian Events and Venues
While the World Equestrian Center, Grandview International, HITS, Ocala Breeders’ Sales, and Live Oak International are some of the most popular Ocala equestrian events, they certainly aren’t the only horse-centric happenings here.
Other Ocala equestrian events and venues include:
- Horse Shows in the Park (HSITP)
- Orange Blossom Mini Horse Shows
- Florida Morgan Horse Shows
- 4-H Specialty Club Horse Show Series
- FQHA Horse Shows
- Southern Regional Paso Fino Shows
- Grand Oaks Resort and Museum
- Ocala Jockey Club
- Williston’s Horseman’s Club
- Ocala Shrine Rodeo
- PacWest Barrel Racing
- Southeast Pro Rodeo
With so many Ocala equestrian events, it’s easy to see why so many equine enthusiasts choose to call Ocala home.
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